Morecambe’s Mystery: The Art Deco Walkabout
A Seaside Escape in Northwest EnglandAs I awoke one morning from uneasy dreams, I found myself with an inexplicable longing for a visit to the seaside. More specifically, my thoughts were consumed with a desire to explore Morecambe, the enchanting resort town on the coast of Lancashire, in northwest England. My ever-patient wife agreed to accompany me on this somewhat spontaneous journey, and off we went.Upon arrival in Morecambe, we were greeted by the crisp sea air and a sense of nostalgia that only a British seaside town can provide. It seems that Morecambe’s history is rooted in the glory days of the early 20th century, when the masses would flock to the picturesque promenade in search of sun, sea, and merriment. In those days, the town was teeming with entertainment venues, dance halls, and all the trappings of a popular seaside destination.The Mystery of Morecambe's Art Deco ArchitectureWith the arrival of the jet age, the seaside holiday lost some of its popularity, and Morecambe experienced a decline. However, a fascinating legacy remains: the town’s stunning collection of Art Deco buildings. It was this architectural time capsule that had drawn me to Morecambe, and I was determined to explore these marvels of modernist design.Our first stop on the self-guided Art Deco walk was the iconic Midland Hotel. The hotel, designed by architect Oliver Hill, first opened its doors in 1933, and was the epitome of modern luxury. After a period of neglect, the Midland Hotel was gloriously restored in the early 2000s, and now stands as a gleaming testament to the elegance of the Art Deco era. The hotel’s curved façade is adorned with the iconic seahorse symbol, which is fitting for a building that has risen from the depths of obscurity to reclaim its rightful place on the Morecambe skyline.A Stroll Along the PromenadeAfter admiring the Midland Hotel, we continued our walk along the promenade. The seafront is dotted with several other examples of Art Deco architecture, including the former Winter Gardens Theatre and the Alhambra, both of which are still in need of some tender loving restoration.As we strolled along, the sun began to set, casting a golden light across the promenade and creating a magical atmosphere. The seaside walkway, once the bustling heart of the town, was now filled with a peaceful stillness that allowed us to truly appreciate the architectural beauty that surrounded us.Art Deco Delights and a Monument to a LegendThe Art Deco tour continued with a visit to the Old Station Building, which now houses the Platform gallery and performance space. The building, with its striking façade and imposing clock tower, serves as a reminder of Morecambe’s past as a vibrant transportation hub.Another highlight of the walk was the Morecambe and Heysham War Memorial, an awe-inspiring monument located on the edge of the promenade. The memorial features a central column adorned with Art Deco motifs, and a series of bronze plaques depicting scenes from World War I.Our Art Deco adventure culminated with a visit to a monument dedicated to one of Morecambe’s most famous sons: comedian and entertainer Eric Morecambe. The statue, which depicts Eric in one of his trademark poses, is surrounded by an array of Art Deco-inspired tiles that pay tribute to his illustrious career. The tiles feature images of the many venues in which Eric performed, along with a selection of his famous catchphrases. It was a fitting tribute to the man who brought laughter to the masses, and a reminder of the town’s golden era.Reviving the Art Deco SpiritAs our walk came to an end, I reflected on the beauty of Morecambe’s Art Deco heritage. In a world where architectural homogeneity is increasingly the norm, the town’s distinctive buildings are a breath of fresh air. Thankfully, there are those who are working tirelessly to preserve and restore these important structures, ensuring that future generations can appreciate their artistry and craftsmanship.As we made our way back to our lodgings, I felt a renewed appreciation for the town’s rich history and a strong sense of hope for its future. Morecambe may no longer be the bustling seaside resort of yesteryear, but its Art Deco treasures serve as a reminder of the town’s unique charms and enduring appeal. And as our seaside adventure drew to a close, I found myself already yearning for a return visit to this fascinating town and its mysterious Art Deco wonders.
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